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Auto Care

It's no secret that regular tune-ups and engine maintenance are investments that pay off with improved fuel economy, longer engine life and cleaner air.  However, many of us procrastinate until the first signs of car trouble-or later.

This section is designed as a quick reference point for common maintenance procedures.  Regardless of the vehicle/engine though, be sure to check your owner's manual for routine maintenance intervals, and refer to a service manual for more detailed information regarding your specific automobile type.

• Auto Parts and Accessories
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• Engine Servicing
  Tune-up - an old-fashioned maintenance term that's nearly non-existent today.  With electronic ignition and fuel injection came computers that took over control of engine settings.  Early versions allowed for some tinkering, but today's engines require advanced equipment and training for major inspections.  Here, you'll find information on basic engine servicing.
  
  

Tire Safety Facts

• 822 million passenger cars, SUVs, and light trucks hit the roads and highways of America in 1999 with new tires to travel 2.4 trillion miles nation wide.
• 316 million new tires were shipped in the U.S. in 1999.
• 35,806 fatal accidents occurred on U.S. highways during 1999 in passenger cars, SUVs, and light trucks.
• 647, or 1.8 percent of the number of highway fatalities in 1999 involved "tire related factors".
• Leading cause of tire failure: Under inflation was the leading cause of tire failure.  Tire failure reduces tread life and generates excessive heat due to increased flexing.
• Once a month and before every long trip, is the recommended frequency for visual inspection and air pressure check of all four tires.  Don't forget the spare.

For more Tire Care information, check out the following links:
Tire Alignment
Misalignment of wheels in the front or rear, improperly operating brakes or shock absorbers, bent wheels, worn bushings and other mechanical problems cause uneven and rapid tread wear and should be corrected by a qualified mechanic.  Check here for more details.

Tire Pressure
Air pressure enables a tire to support the load, so proper inflation is critical.  Check here for more details.

Tire Rotation
Sometimes irregular tire wear can be corrected by rotating your tires.  Consult your car owner's manual, the tire manufacturer or your tire dealer for the appropriate pattern for your vehicle.   Check here for more details.

Tire Tread
The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use and may vary due to driving habits, service practices, differences in road characteristics and climate.  Check here for more details.